I am a VETERAN. My family has a long history of military sevice including a Retired Air Force NCO, a brother at the Pentagon, and at least 5 former or current Marines, Army, and Navy Veterans. I have served and hundreds of my friends and families have served. In my service to this country, I would be appalled at the actions of one single Mommy who knowingly and purposely set out to harm someone. She did not care about anything other than her time. This Mommy was afforded an open opportunity EVERY MONTH to Face time. She exceeded the limits and intruded on others privacy. She disrespected ALL the others who followed the agreement. She basicly TERRORIZED this studio and owner to get her way and now has resorted to False Propaganda. This sounds like the kind of person that this country is fighting Against and not For. I would be ashamed of my wife if I knew the whole story and not just her selfish and pitiful posts. (I am THANKFUL for her husbands service and acknowledge her standing up for him, However misguided it is) I only ask you supporters of her to ask her a question. One series of questions... "Did you gree to the once a month Face time?", Did you get your Face time?", Did you exceed your agreed upon Video time?", and "Did you threaten to ruin this studio if Sally did not bend to your wishes?" I can not think of anyone that has been at this studio longer than us. We have seen this studio grow from two small dance rooms to the thriving Studio it is now. We have witnessed dancers graduate and move on to colleges. We have seen this Studio add the facet of Theatre that includes many more gifted students. We have danced across the United States and competed in many staes, cities, and arenas. We have been part of studios, companies, and theatres. I feel wholeHEARTedly confident in my next few comments. Sally is more than a studio owner. She is a welcome mat for everything GOOD for all the students that are graced by her TEACHING! Sally and GADA Teach. they do not drill students to be machines and universally the same. GADA and its Staff take the dferences and strengths of Groups and incorparate them into routines that showcase young dancers growth. I agree with a few of the negative comments. If you are looking for a dance studio that mirrors Dance Moms and Abby Lee MIller, follow this Mommy that has more time to post vitriolic and false information. J. Souza should be ashamed for starting a campaign of negativity. I am willing to discuss facts and ideas with any of you. This is the kind of thing I fought for... What are you fighting for? If all of us are fighting to get our way, there is no end in sight. A good soldier and a strong country know that there are always two stories. Ask for both sides... Also, I dare any of you Souza supporters to post this on your Facebook Page. Or more daringly, Mrs. Souza, post this on your Photography Business page. The one i have not gone and negatively reviewed because I do not know you. read more

My 14 year old daughter started in Level 1 BTJ as an 11 year old and was easily the oldest girl in the class. A couple of the younger girls joked and asked, "How old are you?" Sally immediately jumped in and said, "Oh, she's 21 and she's my assistant." From that moment on, Sally and Greater Austin Dance Academy have had such a special place in our hearts. My daughter now can't get enough dance and also dances for the Greater Austin Dance Theatre. Over the last 3 1/2 years, I've watched her grow in skill, grace, and confidence. She loves dance and has found her passion. We thank Sally and her wonderful staff for this blessing in my daughter's life. The confidence that my daughter has gained through her dance experience at GADA has impacted all areas of her life and she has blossomed. All of the instructors are strong, confident, caring women who are wonderful role models for young girls. Once we were with GADA for a couple of years, I felt like my other 2 daughters were missing out on such a positive experience that I signed them up too. Even I have enjoyed taking some of the adult classes offered in the summers! Sally teaches her students to respect themselves and their fellow dancers and does not allow "drama." She always encourages respect and gratitude of the girls towards their parents as well. Sally gives the older girls opportunities to assist with classes and camps to help offset their tutition. More than the tuition help, this opportunity allows the girls to gain leadership skills and helps them to appreciate the gift that dance is. I also never have to worry that Sally will pick a costume piece that is not respectful of my daughter's dignity. She always puts the needs of her students first and works to support families as they raise responsible, caring, and confident children. I love dance and I never had the opportunity to study dance at a studio of this calibur. I am so grateful that my girls are able to have this blessing! I recommend Greater Austin Dance Academy every chance I get! read more

If you want a studio that is large, crowded, loud, with no place to sit, this is the place for you. There are 6 classes going on at any one time and there is seating probably for 2 classes of parents. The other parents will let their kids take up all the seating while parents are forced to sit on the floor. Kids are running around, yelling and screaming, and jumping off chairs, while their moms play on their computers and there is no staff intervention or organization. The instructor we dealt with was unfriendly and unwelcoming and made my daughter feel bad about being in the wrong class. Leadership is not interested in getting kids the skills they need, just tracking kids by grade level, even if they have taken the classes before at another studio and can keep up. They are completely inflexible and will not refund your money after one class because of their 5 page release form that you must sign when registering your child. Good luck if you are unhappy; plan on paying $170 for a one class trial and being told that they stick to their contract no matter what the reason! It seems they are more interested in their bottom line than their customers and the kids. I really wanted to love this place and for it be our "home" for dance as it's only a couple blocks from my residence. From trying to call 3 times to talk with someone about registering and not having my calls returned, to the chaos that was indigent to the studio when we arrived, to the frosty reception by the instructor, and finally by the inflexibility of the owner when discussing a refund, there is just no overlooking any of this. We will be finding a new place to dance. Find a studio that cares about your child and their personal develpment, not one like this that is only interested in running an assembly line of classes and taking your money! read more

My daughters have taken dance here for many (six plus) years. The lessons learned go way beyond dance. Ms Sally and her staff teach dance and life lessons. My daughters have made friends for life as have I at the studio. I love the way Ms Sally cares enough about ALL students and considers all of them when making her decisions. She has observation week once a month to allow all parents time to view their precious angels dancing and record to their hearts' desire but leaves the rest of the month for the class as a whole to focus (which is trying at best--especially for beginner classes, right?) I specifically remember a man in the military who was in on leave who came in with his wife to bring their daughter to class and they were allowed to watch and video during a non-observation week. She has a very big heart and is very supportive of the troops and wanted to accommodate them. Of course if they had begin requesting this every week, she would have to refuse them as well. She has hosted classes with special needs children. She offers assistant positions for the dancers to help with tuition and to learn more about teaching dance. She makes sure that her company dancers share their talents with the community each year instead of focusing on competition only. Ms Sally has a big heart for the kids. I also feel obligated to let people know that she has lots of respect for the military as she has family, friends, and coworkers with family who have served or are serving. I think if you speak or read first hand with anyone who dances at GADA you will learn that 99.9% will give it over the top reviews. Dance lessons are so much more than an hour a week. And Ms Sally and her teachers (some of whom by the way have stayed with her since she opened!!) are all GREAT!! read more

GADA is a great local dance studio that focuses on teaching children more than just dance-- they learn how to be collaborative, respectful, self-aware, responsible, and so much more! My daughter has been dancing with Ms. Sally and GADA since the studio opened and we have stayed and brought along others because of the quality of programming and the values she instills. My daughter has danced in the dance troupe for 3 of those years, and Ms. Sally's professionalism and thought for the kids shines even brighter. She distinguishes herself from other studios by reminding the girls that they can be competitive without being distasteful; in fact, you can be a great dancer without competing at all. And as such, our girls have represented the studio and our community tremendously at performances all over the city, state, and even out of state! Her professionalism and respect in the dance community continues to allow our girls access to studios, master classes and back stage tours on national shows. And if you dare question her commitment to the military, then you haven't experienced a recital with Sally Reyes! It is run with military precision from start to finish! I'm still amazed all these years how she can pull off 3-4 full recitals in one day and they all run on time. GADA truly has become an extended part of our family. And it saddens me greatly that someone has taken a rule that has been in place for years to twist it to something it is not AND malign the name of a good person and her business in the process. It's not right, and it's not true. Sally, we love you and all you do for our girls! read more

My daughter has been dancing at GADA for several years both in a class setting as well as a member of the Great Austin Dance Academy Team. Every year she begs to add more classes because she absolutely loves being at the studio and enjoys the variety of classes and instructors. I am so grateful for finding GADA and being able to have my daughter dance in an environment that teaches her responsibility, respect and a true love for the ART of dance. My daughter has blossomed at this studio and on the dance team. Ms. Sally does so much for her students and always has their best interest in mind. She encourages the kids to be respectful not only to each other and their dance teachers but also reminds them the importance of being respectful to their siblings and parents. She regularly reminds them about making "healthy" choices in life. This weekend she arranged for the team to perform out in the community at a children's home and at a retirement center teaching them the importance of giving back through the art of dance. We have danced at other studios in the past and I cannot express what a unique place GADA is. I highly recommend this studio for anyone wanting to get their child started in dance, or for anyone with a more experienced dancer that is losing their love of dance because of competitive pressure. There are a lot of studios that can teach your child to dance. The icing on the cake for me is that GADA also teaches my child life skills that boost her self esteem and make her a better person. read more

My daughters attend GADA. In fact, my oldest has been at the studio since the summer it opened. After 7 years, we feel so lucky to have been a part of such a wonderful studio, with an owner and instructors who are dedicated to teaching our girls not only about dance, but lead by example with regards to having class, strength of character and taking the high road. We could not find a more creative, loving, learning environment for them to learn and appreciate the art of dance. Sadly, a lot of negativity is being put forth not only about the studio, but Sally (the owner) by people who do not have any dealings with this business. It is upsetting that one person can twist the truth and manipulate the public into bullying not only a business, but all of the innocent students who truly love their time at GADA. These negative reviews being written by friends of one person who was not following the rules and distracting other children in her daughter's class, are completely baseless. What a shame it is that people are jumping on the bandwagon, spreading negativity and hate based upon half-truths and manipulation. I recommend Greater Austin Dance Academy 100%. read more

I will start again since someone did not like my previous personal opinion, flagged me and had me removed! GADA is the best! My two daughters who have danced with GADA for over 5 years have thrived under the guidance of the owner and her instructors. The studio is state of the art. Policies are well stated. Discussion is always encouraged with all. The studio is very involved with the local community. The number of girls in attendance at GADA, show and prove that they are a top notch facility. The girls who dance there, mine included, are provided a nurturing and respectful environment. They not only learn dance technique, but they also learn about many of life little lessons like nutrition, fitness, how to handle yourself, how to revolve issues with respect and dignity and so much more. My girls love the place and would go nowhere else. My personal experience! -A proud supporter of GADA, our local community, and the military read more

My daughter has been dancing at GADA for 7 years and is also a member of Greater Austin Dance Theater. Our experience has always been great, Ms. Sally and the staff know each and every student by name. My daughter LOVES her instructors which have been there since the studio first opened. Very dedicated staff. We appreciate our daughter being taught the importance of RESPECT and the love of dance as an art and not about competing and tricks. Greater Austin Dance Theatre has dedicated many performances to the local community as well as most recently dedicated a dance performance to the tragedy at Sandy Hook. My daughter has learned the importance of friendship, family and integrity. The new building is fantastic and the number of students is growing due to all the great recommendations!. I always recommend GADA to other parents who are looking for a caring and fun place to learn the art of dance. Great job Sally and GADA staff! read more

It is unfortunate that the point of view from one person, who hasn't been with this studio very long, can have such a domino effect of negativity and quite frankly one of pure absurdity. My daughter and I have known Sally for 6 years now, and can honestly say she is one of the most fair, honest, and compassionate people I know. As a paying customer and as a daughter of a Vietnam Veteran and sister of a Gulf War Veteran, I completely agree with how this situation was handled. Sally, having 2 grandfathers who fought in WWII, a father who served in the army, and 2 cousins currently serving in the Marines, offered a monthly FT in order to respect everyone involved: the parents who wanted to FT, the dance instructor (having to keep control of her class), the paying customers (other parents), and of course the other children who are trying to begin their journey of dance. read more

The owner of this company represents the best of America. She has a great business that has grown because of the excellent way she runs it, the way she teaches the girls to do their best , to be respectful and responsible, and because she is a genuinely good person. I highly recommend GADA to any parent looking for a good place to help your daughter to learn dance, have fun, grow in confidence, and be safe. Out of respect for the sacrifice for people who serve in the military (I teach my kids to pray every day for our soldiers), i will not comment further on the negative reviews I have seen, other than to say that they are unfair, and they do not represent all that is GADA. read more

Lisa and her assistants did an amazing job with my daughter's birthday party! I was so impressed with everything. Lisa took care of all the decorations which were beautiful, which made everything so easy. She taught the girls a lovely dance routine that everyone could do. The girls even got some craft time which my daughter loved. They did a wonderful job making my daughter feel special on her day. I would highly recommend Lisa and Greater Austin Dance Academy for anyone thinking of having a ballerina birthday party! read more

My daughter has been dancing at GADA for 5 years. For the past 3 years she has been a member of the Greater Austin Dance Theater. Sally and the teachers do a wonderful job creating a positive environment for all the kids and teaching them not only how to dance but be leaders in their community. My daughter has performed for several children's homes and nursing homes....sharing joy with people through the art of dance. My daughter has had every single teacher at GADA, and has found encouragement from each one. read more

Greater Austin Dance has taught me to become a great dancer and along with that life lessons. The owner, Ms. Sally greatly cares for the dancers and families who attend the studio. In the Greater Austin Dance Theatre (for girls who want to perform more) she has them go to perform at Zilker, Helping Hands Home, and the elder's home. Overall, the studio is a great, friendly, family-oriented, place where the staff truly cares for the dancers and their families. read more

GADA is absolutely without a doubt my favorite place to be! Sally is like a second mother to me and she shows respect to anyone who enters her studio. Taking classes at this studio is an amazing experience. You're able to learn technique in an environment with no judgement and no competition. Not only do you learn different dance styles but how to show respect. I would never think about switching studios, there is no other like GADA! I love my GADA family! read more

This place is awful! I would never recommend this dance studio to anyone! The fact that they would not allow a military father who is deployed, watch his daughter dance through FaceTime is sickening! That woman has no heart or appreciation to military soldiers or their families! This is a man who can only FaceTime every now and then and is missing out on many big things happening in his daughters life! My heart aches for this family. read more

My daughters have danced with GADA since the summer it opened. They have grown in both their dancing and the maturity under the direction of Ms Sally. She ALWAYS has the dancer's best interest at heart. She does a fabulous job teaching the girls and has handpicked a wonderful staff. We had danced at 4 other studios before landing at GADA. My youngest has 2-1/2 more years before graduation. We will be at GADA until she is too old. read more

My daughter is 8 yrs old and has been taking ballet, tap and jazz classes for almost 2 years. I take her to GADA 3 times a week but she wishes I would take her 5 times a week! She really loves to dance at GADA!! Her teachers and Ms.Sally are always very nice, friendly, respectful and professional. We are very happy to be part of the GADA family! read more

My daughter has be attending GADA for over 5 years and I can not say enough great things about the studio, staff and owner- Ms. Sally! Not only has my child enjoyed learning about dance, but just this weekend she participated in a community service project with the studio. We love GADA and highly recommend it to everyone!! read more